Man Convicted Of Killing Neighbor Out On Bail

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — A Tampa Bay area man sentenced to eight years in prison for fatally shooting his neighbor has been released on bail while he appeals his conviction.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office reports that 72-year-old Trevor Dooley was released Monday afternoon on $100,000 bail.

Dooley was convicted of manslaughter in November, despite claims of self-defense, and sentenced last month.

Authorities say Dooley shot 41-year-old David James at a Valicro park in September 2010. Dooley, who lived across from the park, was yelling at a skateboarder using a basketball court when James interceded.

Witnesses say Dooley flashed a gun, starting a struggle that left James dead. James’ then-8-year-old daughter watched him die.

Dooley testified he only shot James because James was choking him.

Dooley will live in a Spring Hill, not the neighborhood where the shooting occurred.